Southwest should prepare for flood says EMO

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is advising people living along the St. John River, and in low lying areas of southwestern New Brunswick, to remain alert in the coming daysdue to the increased risk of flooding from this weekend's expected rain.

Robert Duguay, the director of communications for NB EMO, said the organization isclosely watching the approaching rainstorm.

"The river is at full capacity ...We're waiting to see the impact that storm will [have] on the river and the impact it will have on infrastructure and roads," said Duguay.

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"We'll be ready to act accordingly."

BrennanAllen, aCBC meteorologist, said he expects the heaviest rain fall in the southwest of the province.

"[In] the heaviest rain, likely from Fredericton on southwest into St. Stephen, St. Andrews, there is a chance of seeing 100 to potentially 150 mm of rain by the end of this weekend," said Allen.

"We're going to see a lot more flooding and some washed out roads."

Because of the rain expected, Duguay is warning people who live in flood prone areas to prepare to leave if necessary.

"We certainly advise residents all, along the Kennebecasis River particularly, to pay attention to the water levels and to [be ready] to move if that would be required," said Duguay.

NB EMO is also reporting that Route 105 between Jemseg and the Burton Bridge is now closed.

Only local residents can still travel on the road and they must have passes in order to do so.

Speed limits on the stretch of highway had already been reduced to 50 km/h prior to the closure.